AMHERST – Wade Wolfe wouldn’t trade the last 21 years he’s served as an auxiliary member of the RCMP.

“I’ve really enjoyed it, I couldn’t picture myself doing something else,” said Wolfe, who was presented a pin and certificate for 20 years service with the RCMP as a volunteer auxiliary constable. “I enjoy working with the officers and seeing a lot of guys come and go.”

Wolfe started in the former ride-along program the RCMP offered. From there, it was suggested he consider being an auxiliary members. After going through the application process and receiving training he was admitted to the program.

Since then, he has logged more than 3,500 official hours of volunteer time along with more time that he’s helped out at other events and incidents.

An employee at PolyCello in Amherst, Wolfe will pick the hours he’s available and contact the office about working with officers while on duty. He’s also volunteered at various community events, including Police Week activities.

Wolfe said he’s seen a lot of interesting things over his years of service and worked with some amazing individuals.

“It’s like anything else, if you enjoy it you’ll stick with it,” he said.

Staff Sgt. Gary Fournier said Wolfe is an example of how success the auxiliary program is.

“People like Wade play an important role in the RCMP,” Fournier said. “They’re never in harm’s way, but give us a visible presence in our communities and are a valuable asset to have.”

Wolfe, who is one of six auxiliary officers in Cumberland County, live and work in the communities they serve.

Auxiliary constables promote community-based policing by participating in community events and assisting regular RCMP members with their general duties. They participate in crime prevention initiatives within schools, traffic control, ground patrols, search and rescue, parades and other ceremonial events.

Wolfe, through additional training, also has the ability to provide guard services at the RCMP lockup. Fournier said that’s not something most auxiliary officers do.